Apparatus, method, and system for applying substances to pre-harvested or harvested forage, grain, and crops

ABSTRACT

An apparatus, method and system for applying a biologically active or chemical substance to a relatively large volume harvested or pre-harvested crop includes relatively small container of a mixture biologically active or chemical substance and water in fluid communication with fluid conduit. A pump moves mixture from the bottle through the conduit. A source of pressurized air is in fluid communication with the conduit to aerate the mixture. The aerated mixture is expelled through a nozzle at distal end of the conduit. In one aspect, the controller can monitor speed of the pump by monitoring operating voltage of the pump. Speed of the pump can be adjusted to adjust application rate. In one aspect, a process combines a flow of air through an orifice with the metering of a low volume of additive, such as an aid to preservation, to a crop as it is being cut or harvested to provide for even distribution of the additive to the crop.

RELATION TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a Divisional Application of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 10/899,785, filed Jul. 27, 2004, which application, under 35U.S.C. §§ 119 and/or 120, claims priority to and the benefit of, and isa Continuation-In-Part of, co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/627,227, filed Jul. 28, 2003, entitled “A PROCESS FOR APPLYINGADDITIVES TO CROPS DURING HARVEST USING COMPRESSED AIR TO DISTRIBUTE THEADDITIVE EVENLY ON THE CROP”.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

The contents of co-owned, co-pending U.S. patent applications Ser. No.10/140,596 filed May 7, 2002, and Ser. No. 10/627,227, filed July 28,2003, entitled “A PROCESS FOR APPLYING ADDITIVES TO CROPS DURING HARVESTUSING COMPRESSED AIR TO DISTRIBUTE THE ADDITIVE EVENLY ON THE CROP”, areincorporated by reference herein in their entirety. The contents of U.S.Patent D409,303, issued May 4, 1999 and PCT Publication WO 99/58253,published Nov. 18, 1999, are incorporated by reference herein in theirentirety.

I. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to application of a biologically active orchemical substance to relatively large volumes of target product, oneexample being pre-harvested or harvested crop, and in particular, to anapparatus, method, and system of applying biologically active orchemical substance in a minute ratio to the target product, whether itis moving relative to the substance, the substance is moving relative toit, or both.

B. Problems in the Art

It is many times desirable to treat harvested agricultural crop byapplying substance having, at least in part, some biologically activeorganisms. One primary example is a forage inoculant which containsbacteria that, when applied in appropriate concentration to harvestedagricultural crop, can reduce rate of degradation of the harvestedagricultural crop.

In the example of forage inoculant, a relatively small concentration ofinoculant can effectively treat a relatively large volume of harvestedcrop. For example, ratios on the order of 40 grams of inoculant to 50tons of harvested crop are typical. However, relatively effective evenapplication of such small quantities to such large quantities ofagricultural crop is not a trivial matter, particularly if the crop orthe applicator, or both, are moving relative to one another.

Additives are in common use for purposes of aiding in the preservationof the crop during storage. Two types of additives are the most common:(1) acid to reduce bacterial activity and, (2) inoculants to addfavorable activity. These additives must be applied at time of harvestto provide the maximum benefit in the aid to preservation of the crop.Harvesting of the crop takes place over a large area through the use ofmobile harvesting equipment such as forage harvesting and balingimplements. These implements have been designed for maximum speed inharvesting with very little consideration of being compatible with therequirements of applying the additives used to aid in the preservationof the crop. The carrying capacity of harvesting equipment for additivesbeing used is sometimes limited to small amounts of material. In suchcases, it is beneficial to use additives that require the lowest ratioof additive to crop so, with limited carrying capacity, the harvestingimplement is not stopping to refill small reservoirs for the additiveson a frequent basis.

Additives to aid in the preservation of crops have been developed withincreasing lower ratios of application in recent years. High-strengthacid formulas have been introduced that are effective in controllingbacterial growth when applied at ratios a low as 0.005% of the cropbeing treated. Highly concentrated inoculants have been developed thatare effective at rates as low as 0.001% of the crop being treated. Theselow inclusion rate products have reduced the need to stop and fill thereservoirs on the harvesting implements.

The problem that arises with the products that have low rates ofapplication is attaining even coverage over the complete crop beingtreated. To be effective on the entire crop, coverage of these additivesmust be even on the entire crop. For liquids, conventional spraytechniques are less than effective at these low rates.

One current method of inoculant application premixes concentratedinoculant with water in a large tank (e.g. 1:200 to 1:3000 ratioinoculant to water). Such tanks can hold, sometimes, on the order of 100or more gallons of water. A conventional spraying system is then used tospray the mixture on the harvested crop. It is cumbersome and timeconsuming to mix, carry, and replenish such a large volume. It can alsobe wasteful of inoculant, which is biologically active and notinexpensive. Careful pre-mixing must take place. Sufficient power andfuel must be used to manipulate a tank of such size and weight. If thefull tank of mixture is not used, the remainder most times must bethrown away. There is no practical way to store the mixture.Additionally, a relatively accurate spraying system must be used. Thewhole system usually must be taken back to a base location to refill andremix the tank. Such a spraying system uses a substantial amount ofwater per unit forage.

An alternative method was developed to address some of theaforementioned problems and deficiencies. The APPLI-PRO™ systemavailable from Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Des Moines, Iowa, anddisclosed at U.S. Ser. No. 10/140,596 and WO 99/58253, instead uses apalm or hand-sized APPLI-PRO™ container or bottle (see U.S. PatentD409,303) of concentrated inoculant pre-mix that could be removablyinstalled to its spraying system. A larger water tank is in fluidcommunication with a first pump, which pumps water from the tank at adesired rate to spray nozzles. A second pump, preferably an injectionpump, is in fluid communication with the small inoculant concentrationbottle and the fluid conduit. Precise, adjustable operation of theinjection pump served as a precise metering of concentrated inoculantinto the main water stream to the sprayers. This eliminated therequirement of pre-mixing in the large water tank. It allowed fordispensing of only the needed amount of inoculant. At the end of aspraying session, the inoculant bottle could either be exchanged or anyremainder sealed and stored in that container, and then available forsubsequent use. The system provides accurate, efficient utilization ofinoculant with reduced margin of error. It is also highly adjustable fordifferent needs. However, it requires two separate pumping mechanisms.Additionally, it still uses a substantially large holding tank for thewater supply if large quantities of agricultural crop were to be sprayedin one session.

Other attempts have been made at improved forage inoculant-typeapplication systems. In the ULV™ model, available from Pioneer Hi-BredInternational, instead of a large water tank, either as a pre-mix tankor water supply tank, again a much smaller single container (e.g. 2.5liters) contains the pre-mix of inoculant and water. Also, instead ofspraying a ratio of a very small amount of inoculant to large amounts ofwater an atomizer is used to atomize the mixture in a very accurate,consistent manner to apply the right amount on the harvested forage.However, it has been found that an effective atomizer is relativelyexpensive, and that the overall apparatus can cost several thousands ofdollars.

Therefore, additional room for improvement in the art still exists. Amore economical, less cumbersome, efficient and effective applicationsystem is needed. Other factors must be considered in designing systemsto apply such types of substances.

First, many biologically active substances have some threshold oftolerance for trauma. For example, some pumps and nozzles that try toatomize fluid many times subject the living cells to shearing forcesthat can damage their cells. Of course, damaged inoculant cells caninhibit or destroy their efficacy.

Secondly, care must be taken to avoid over-drying the biologicallyactive substance, either while stored, awaiting application, or duringapplication. Excessive drying or exposure to air can also reduce theefficacy of the biological ingredient.

Third, even with the specific example of forage inoculants, there are awide variety of environments in which the inoculant could be applied andenvironmental factors could affect application. For example, it could beapplied on a harvested crop moving past a spray device on some sort ofan exposed conveyor. Care must be taken to direct the inoculant in aneven manner on the moving crop. Conveyance equipment is becoming moreand more sophisticated. The crop can be moving at substantial speeds andvolumes. An inoculant application system must be able to be adjusted andadapted accordingly. For example, the application system might becarried on-board a harvesting device. Inoculant application may be madeat or near the internal conveying systems, e.g. mechanical or pneumatic,of the machine. The speed the crop moves can be high; for example, overa hundred miles an hour. With exposed conveyors or internal conveyors,the effect of wind or vacuum on an airborne mixture created byhigh-speed venturi effect must be handled.

On the other hand, as detailed in Ser. No. 10/140,596 and WO 99/58253,there are other instances where the application system may be movingrelative to the harvested crop, or both the sprayer and the crop moving.An effective application system must be able to handle thoseenvironments.

For purposes of this description, the term “target product” will be usedto refer to any material, living or not, or any surface to which theapparatus, system or method of the present invention could be used toapply a biologically active or chemical substance in a liquid pre-mixform. For purposes of this description, the term “crop” will be used torefer to an example of a target product, and includes any plantmaterial, whether pre-harvested (e.g. growing in a field or cut butwithout the desired part being yet harvested), or during and afterharvesting.

II. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore a principal object, feature, advantage, and/or aspect ofthe present invention to provide an apparatus, method, or system ofapplying a biologically active or chemical substance in relatively smallquantities to relatively large volumes of a target product that improvesover or solves problems and deficiencies in the art.

Additional objects, features, aspects, and/or advantages of the presentinvention include an apparatus, method, or system for applying abiologically active or chemical substance in relatively small amounts torelatively large volumes of a target product which:

-   -   a. is economical:    -   b. reduces the amount of carrier fluid that must be available or        carried to mix with the biologically active or chemical        substance;    -   c. is adaptable to work with up to extremely large volumes and        rates of volume flow of target product, including crops;    -   d. avoids trauma on the biologically active or chemical        substance;    -   e. is adapted for high throughput of target product;    -   f. is accurate;    -   g. is adjustable for different volumes and speeds of different        target products;    -   h. is consistent and even in application;    -   i. is durable;    -   j. provides relatively easy maintenance and repairs;    -   k. is adaptable for a variety of placements, environments, and        functions;    -   l. provides an even mix and application by air assist.

These and other objects, features, aspects, and/or advantages of thepresent invention will become more apparent with reference to theaccompanying specification and claims.

One particular aspect of the present invention includes an apparatus,method, and system for applying a biologically active or chemicalsubstance to a relatively large volume of target product, includingcrop. The biologically active or chemical substance is mixed with water.The mixture is contained in a relatively small, hand carryable containeror bottle which can be placed in fluid communication with a conduit to anozzle with spraying end. A pump is adapted to move the mixture from thebottle through the conduit towards the nozzle. Pressurized air is mixedwith the mixture in the conduit to aerate the mixture. The pump iscontrollable and adjustable to vary the rate of application of themixture from the nozzle. The nozzle, pump, and pressurized air areselected to essentially mist the mixture in a controlled, even,consistent manner, minimizing trauma on any biologically active orchemical ingredients. What might be called the “air assist” promotes aneven discharge and application. A relatively low volume of liquidmixture is precisely metered onto the target product with a relativelylarge volume of pressurized air. The primary components of the systemcan be integrated into a relatively small-sized unit.

In another aspect of the invention, a process employs a stream of airunder pressure to deliver low rates of additives to crops, so that theair distributes the additive to the crop evenly. The additive beingapplied, e.g. at ratios under 2% of the crop being treated, is thusevenly distributed, leading to more effective response to the additive.

In another aspect of the invention, voltage of the pump motor ismonitored. Adjustment of the voltage to the pump can then adjust theoutput of the system.

In another aspect of the invention, the nozzle and aeration of themixture cooperate with the pumping of the mixture to create aconsistent, controlled spray or distribution without shearing actionwhich can be harmful to the biologically active or chemical substance.

Another aspect of the invention includes the system's own ability ofusing air pressure to clean the conduits of material post-application.This process can be conducted automatically.

The system can be used in combination with a variety of conveyancemethods for the system or the target product to which the substance isto applied, or both.

III. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of one exemplary embodiment according toone aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram of components of an exemplary embodiment accordingto the present invention with a single mixture container.

FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic view of a double container system that could beused with the embodiment of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is an alternative embodiment for a double nozzle system useablewith the system of FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 is an electrical schematic of an electrical circuit usable withthe embodiment of FIG. 2.

FIGS. 6A-C are perspective views of one example of how certaincomponents of the system of FIG. 2 could be incorporated into anintegrated apparatus or housing.

FIG. 7 is a diagrammatic view of a control interface for an embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 8 is a simplified perspective diagram of an alternative embodimentaccording to the present invention; an embodiment where the biologicallyactive or chemical substance is applied in a swath of mown or cut cropin a field.

IV. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

A. Overview

For a better understanding of the invention, examples or forms theinvention can take will now be described in detail. Frequent referencewill be taken to the accompanying drawings. Reference numbers will beused to indicate certain parts and locations in the drawings. The samereference numbers and letters will be used to indicate the same partsand locations throughout the drawings, unless otherwise indicated.

B. Exemplary Embodiment 1

With reference to FIG. 1, in one aspect of the invention, an apparatusand process combines a high volume of air delivered to the crop and alow volume metering of the additive (e.g. a mixture of biologicallyactive or chemical substance and water) into the stream of air to carryand distribute the additive into a crop. In a typical embodiment of theprocess, a means of pumping air 1 is mounted on harvesting equipmentsuch as forage harvesting or baling implements. The airflow from thesource 1, a pump, compressor or supply of compressed air, is normallybetween 0.1 and 5 cubic feet per minute. It is delivered into a line 2and routed to a spray orifice 3. The orifice will deliver the air in aneven fan-type pattern 4 when the air before the tip is delivered underpressure, typically between 5 and 100 pounds per square inch (psi). Whenthis spray orifice 3 is oriented in a position on the harvestingimplement where the crop is flowing evenly in front of the tip, theair/liquid mix covers the crop evenly.

In the typical embodiment, a reservoir 5 to hold the additive is alsolocated on the harvesting equipment. A metering device 6 is used todispense the additive into the line 2. The metering device 6 regulatessthe proper application of the additive based on flow of the product. Themetering device 6 may also have a means of preventing air from flowinginto the reservoir 5 and also must have the capability to deliverproduct into the line 2, overcoming the line pressure developed by theair supply 1. In a typical embodiment, the metering device 6 used is apositive displacement pump, which will prevent air from entering thereservoir 5 and will deliver product at a pressure high enough toovercome the air pressure in the line 2. This pump can be equipped witha means to regulate flow, so that the amount of additive discharged tothe crop is matched to the rate of harvest, and the desired ratio ofapplication can be maintained. Distance from the point of introductionat the metering device 6 and the spray tip 3 must be of sufficientlength to allow for mixing of the product in the air before it isdelivered to the crop.

An encoder could be used to monitor application rate, a voltageadjustable motor to control metering of the concentrate, or otherdevices to monitor and manage application.

C. Exemplary Embodiment 2

1. Exemplary Environment

With reference to FIGS. 2-7, other aspects according to the inventionwill be described. In this example, an additive (an air/liquid mixincluding a biologically active substance mixed with water) will beapplied to a harvested agricultural crop, which will be forage such asalfalfa. The biologically active substance will be a forage inoculant(e.g. 1174 silage inoculant, available from Pioneer Hi-BredInternational, Inc., Des Moines, Iowa)

The apparatus for carrying and applying the mixture on harvested forageis a self-propelled or pull-behind (including loader wagons) forage cropchopper vehicle or implement (such as are well-known in the art), withthe spray nozzle positioned along an internal conveyor or pneumaticmovement of the harvested forage. A control device is positioned at ornear the operator of the vehicle or implement.

FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic illustration of a system 10 according to thisexemplary embodiment. The components are in diagrammatic form forillustration and are not to scale. Forage is diagrammaticallyillustrated passing through an internal conveyor 9 of the chopper in thedirection indicated by the arrow 8 in FIG. 2. Components in the upperright hand part of FIG. 2 are located in a operator cab. The remainderof the system is located at or near the material to spray, internally ofthe harvester vehicle.

Of course, the apparatus, system, and method can be used for otheranalogous applications and in other environments, as indicated herein.This is one example only.

The basic primary components of system 10 will now be described.

2. Bottle 20

A 2,500-milliliter bottle 20 (basically cylindrical) with a first end 22and a second end 24, is adapted to hold a mixture of carrier fluid (e.g.water) and biologically active or chemical substance (e.g. forageinoculant). As can be seen in FIG. 3, bottle 20 can have an opening 26in end 22 through which the water and inoculant can be inserted intobottle 20 and mixed (by shaking or other methods), or a pre-mix ofwater/inoculant could be inserted into bottle 20. A removable cap 25 isillustrated in FIG. 3 (e.g. could be placed onto the top of bottle 20and removably cover and seal opening 26). Bottle 20 could be theAppli-Pro™ bottle from Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Des Moines, Iowa(USA). It could have a configuration like that of U.S. Patent D409,303.

The inoculant is available from a variety of commercial sources inhighly concentrated form. Through empirical testing or knowledge, theapplication amount from system 10 can be determined. The ratio ofinoculant to water in bottle 20 can be calculated so that the requiredratio of inoculant to volume of forage is met when system 10 isoperated.

One example would be to treat about 250 tons of harvested forage perhour. A ratio of approximately 1 part inoculant to 6 parts water for a2,500-milliliter bottle (e.g. reference number 20 of FIG. 2) would betypical. The 250 tons/hour is based on the assumptions that: (a) system10 is configured to mist approximately 10 milliliters per ton; and (b)there would be approximately 100 Billion colony forming units (CFU) perton of forage moving at medium or high speeds through the spraying area.

Bottle 20 can be made of any of a number of materials. One example wouldbe high impact, transparent UV resistant plastic that can be sterilizedwith traditional procedures.

As can be appreciated, a 2,500-milliliter bottle is easily carryable,even when full, by one or two hands of a person. Several bottles 20could be carried by a single person at least in a box or carrier. Bottle20 could include indicia with instructions or identification.

Furthermore, as can be appreciated, a friction fit, sealable cap 25would allow mixture in bottle 20 to be stored for some reasonable time,as opposed to having to throw it away if not used up in a givenapplication session.

3. Bottle Receiver 30

As shown in FIG. 2, and with further reference to FIG. 3 (left side),system 10 includes a receiver 30 adapted to accept and receive the end22 of bottle 20 with opening 26. Threads 38 on bottle 20 could mate withthreads in concave receiving cup 32 of receiver 30 to allow removablesecurement of bottle 20 to system 10. Receiver 30 could be operable inthe position shown in FIG. 2, with bottle 20 inverted such that fluidwould fill by gravity into conduit 14. Alternatively, as indicated inFIG. 3, bottle 20 could be threaded, with opening 26 up, into receiver30. A tube 34 could extend down near the bottom of bottle 20 when infully attached position and suction or vacuum effect of pump 40 coulddraw fluid from bottle 20 up into conduit 14.

Application Ser. No. 10/140,596 and WO 99/58253 illustrate in moredetail several embodiments of a receiver/bottle arrangement 20 such thatcould be used with system 10. In particular note that receiver 30 couldbe rotatable such that bottle 20 could be threadably inserted with end26 up so that no spillage occurs, and then the entire receiver/bottle30/20 combination rotated such that bottle 20 ends up open-end-down tofeed its contents by gravity. Or the entire receiver/bottle 30/20 couldremain in the fixed upright position. Furthermore, application Ser. No.10/140,596 illustrates certain ways that flow could be controlled frombottle 20.

Receiver 30 can be made of relatively economical materials such asmolded or extruded plastics that are highly durable and resistant to theenvironment they would experience.

4. Conduit 14 and Nozzle 12

As illustrated in FIG. 2, main fluid conduit 14 has a distal end 16attached to a nozzle 12, and a proximal end 18 in fluid communicationwith bottle 20 through receiver 30. System 10 is operable to movemixture from bottle 10 into end 18 of conduit 14, and to end 16 ofconduit 14 for spray distribution from nozzle 12. Conduit 14 can be adurable, transparent, flexible plastic tubing (e.g. hospital grade)adapted to work with a peristaltic pump. It can vary in length anddimensions according to need. In one example, it is a 8 feet long, ¼inch I.D., ⅜ inch O.D. flexible tube made from one of various plasticstypes or PVC and is available commercially from Grainger Co. ofDavenport, Iowa under product number/name 4HL94.

Nozzle 12 can be different styles or configurations. Preferably, itproduces a gentle, consistent mist under the pressure and inputconditions of system 10. It does not create atomization through microscreens or sharp corners and constrictions in a manner that couldprovide damaging trauma on a substantial scale to the cells of theinoculant, or provide shearing action to the cells that would tend todamage them. It promotes even distribution into the space through whichforage 8 is moving (see reference no. 28 in FIG. 2). In many present-dayforage implements, forage 8 moves relatively quickly past nozzle 12(e.g. sometimes well over one hundred miles an hour). Many implementsuse pneumatic power to move forage 8, so it is basically fluidized inpressurized air. It therefore is not lying flat, but is moving fastthrough all parts of a cross-section of the pneumatic conduit. Thispresents a challenge for even application to forage 8. Some implementsuse mechanical conveyors. Forage 8 would then be more in a form that islying on the conveyor. This also presents a challenge to evenapplication.

An example of nozzle 12 would be a spray nozzle sold under the trademarkConeJet available commercially from Tee-Jet Co. and Spraying Systems Co.of Wheaton, Ill. One such nozzle that has been used is marked “ConeJet10X”. Other types are, of course, possible. Preferably, they do notpresent substantial trauma to the cells of biologically activesubstances.

5. Pump 40

Pump 40 is a peristaltic pump having a motor 42 and a peristaltic rollermechanism 44, such as are well known and available commercially. Anexample would be part no. 2P305 peristaltic pump from Grainger Co. ofDavenport, Iowa (12 VDC). It is electrically powered and motor 42 couldhave a variable speed motor control to the motor speed of motor 42, andthus the pumping rate of pump 50.

Conduit 14 would be in fluid communication with bottle 20 and nozzle 12.It could be a single plastic tube passing through peristaltic pump 40,or could have one piece operatively connected between bottle 20 and aninput 46 to a piece inside pump 40, and another piece between output 48of pump 40 to nozzle 12. Obviously, conduit 14 and any connectors,whether conduit 14 is a unitary member or in segments or pieces, arefluid tight from bottle 20 through nozzle 12.

Operation of peristaltic pump 40 in a normal pumping mode wouldsuccessively constrict a portion of flexible conduit 14 at area 45(generally between pump rollers 44) to create a pumping action inconduit 14. Motor 42 would be adjustable to vary the speed of theperistaltic rollers 44, which would be in proportion to the amount offluid that would be pumped through conduit 14.

Adjustment of pumping rate can be calibrated for the substance andtarget product. Many harvesting implements have sensors which canestimate the amount of tons of crop being harvested per hour. The amountof mixture to be applied per ton harvested crop per hour can bepredetermined. The pumping rate of pump 40 can be calibrated for a rangeof application rates per ton harvested crop per hour. An operator of theharvesting equipment can check the estimated tons/hour the harvesterwill be processing and then simply punch in or dial in a correlatedsetting for system 10. If the rate needs to be changed because of achange in tons/hour being harvested, or for a difference crop or targetproduct, a variable speed pump allows the same.

6. Compressor 50

Pressurized air is introduced into conduit 14 between pump 40 and nozzle12 through conduit 52 from compressor 50 to junction 54 with conduit 14.Conduit 52 can be of the same or similar material as conduit 14. Afluid-tight “T” joint or other connection can be made at junction 54.Alternatively, conduit 14 could be originally manufactured to havebranches 16 and 52.

Compressor 50 can be part number 5Z349 available from Grainger Co. ofDavenport, Iowa. Preferably, it produces 5-30 psi at 12 VDC. A range of5-50 psi has been found acceptable, but a range of 5-100 psi can beused. Preferably, branch 52 is protected by a one-way valve or otherwisehas an apparatus that prevents the mixture from traveling into branch 52or into compressor 50.

The psi from compressor 50 can be adjustable and compressor 50 can beoperated on 12 VDC. Alternatively, or in addition, another componentcould be added to the system that would allow adjustment of air pressurefrom compressor 50 (e.g. some type of pressure control device at orafter the outlet from compressor 50).

7. Voltmeter 60

A conventional voltmeter 60 (one such is part no. IT-855 from GraingerCo.) can be in electrical communication by cable 62 with motor 42 ofpump 40. By empirical testing and calibration, the amount of throughputof mixture from bottle 20 to nozzle 12 can be correlated with thevoltage reading of motor 42. Alternative voltage sensors, e.g. a digitalvolt-meter, may be used as well.

Cable 64 can communicate the voltage reading of voltmeter 62 to acontroller 80 (see FIG. 2).

As mentioned previously, motor 42 would present voltage readings thatcan be correlated with a varying amount of throughput of fluid throughconduit 14. Therefore, by the simple method of monitoring voltage ofmotor 42, intelligence can be gathered about the rate of mist fromnozzle 12.

There can be alternative ways to calibrate the system and operation ofmotor 42 without voltmeter 60 and its function.

8. Manual Control 70 and/or Control Interface 110

Because mist output has a known relationship to operating voltage ofpump 42, manual control 70 can be operatively connected to motor 42. Amanually adjustable control knob 72 can be adjusted to differentsettings 74 for control 70 to provide a range of pump speeds (i.e. motorspeeds), to in turn adjust rate of pumping action from pump 40.

One alternative would have control 70 (e.g. a rheostat) directly adjustspeed of motor 42. The operator would have to set control 70 based onempirical tests or calibration.

Another alternative, as shown in FIG. 2, has control 70 operativelyconnected to an intermediary component, here controller 80, which wouldtranslate the setting of control 70 into a signal that would instructthe speed of motor 42 through a cable, electrical wire, or othercommunication channel 82. A cable, electrical wire, or othercommunication channel 76 can connect control 70 to electronic controllerdevice 80.

Another option would be to have a control interface associated withcontroller 80 (see, e.g., control interface 110 of FIG. 7) which wouldallow an operator to set application rate by pushing or touching buttonsor screens or other input devices. Software could be programmed tointerpret the operator input and instruct pump motor 42 accordingly.

9. Controller 80

System 10 can be coordinated through a controller 80. Controller 80 canbe a microprocessor, such as are well-known and commercially available.Other types of electric, electronic, or digital controllers arepossible. It could include a digital display 84 integrated withcontroller 80 or connected through a cable 86. Controller 80 can operateon 12 VDC. As mentioned, adjustable inputs directly on digitalcontroller 80 may be used in place of a rheostat 70.

Controller 80, along with manual control 70 if used, can be integratedinto a housing that can be positioned in the operator cab of theagricultural equipment (e.g. chopper). Voltmeter 60, if used, can beintegrated into the housing or positioned near pump 40, or anywhere inbetween.

Controller 80 could be programmed by well-known means and methods tointerpret and instruct pump motor 42 to operate at a selected setting ofcontrol 70 and monitor voltage of motor 42 to maintain a consistent pumpmotor 42 speed. An example of operation is provided later.

Alternatively, controller 80 could be programmed for more sophisticatedfunctions. For example, it could have either a volatile or non-volatilememory with look-up tables correlated to various application rates.Instead of a manual control 70, the operator would simply enter an inputinstruction that controller 80 would interpret to be a given applicationrate. Controller 80 would then, in turn, instruct operation of pump 42accordingly. Voltmeter 60 could effectively be a feedback loop tocontroller 80 to monitor the pump operation and thus allow controller 80to fine tune the mist output.

Memory could also contain application rates and ranges for a variety ofdifferent biologically active or chemical substances.

Optionally, controller 80 and other electrical or electronic circuitryor components could be manufactured, in whole or in part, into a circuitboard that could be installed in a housing for operable use withapparatus 10. This could further reduce cost of the system.

10. Electrical Circuit

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates generally an electrical circuit 100that can be used with system 10. Circuit 100 electrically communicatesbetween the components of FIG. 2 and a 12 VDC electrical power source.

For example, FIG. 5 illustrates the following components. It couldinclude additional components.

A switch 114 can provide electrical power to the circuit. A switch 115can turn the spraying mode on. An input 117 can automatically pause thespraying mode by disconnecting power to pump 40 and compressor 50 when asignal is received at input 117. Input 117 here is an “end of rowinput”, which can be a signal from a micro-switch or other component onthe harvesting implement indicating the harvesting head of the implementhas been raised. This, in turn, indicates that harvesting has stopped.Conversely, the circuit can automatically resume spraying mode when theharvesting head drops, which can be sensed and signaled to circuit 100.

A variable speed control 43 for pump motor 42 of pump 40 can be set tocontrol rate of pumping action of pump 40.

FIG. 5 also illustrates two valve control solenoids 104 and 106 whichcould be used to turn valves (not shown) on and off by instruction fromcontroller 80. Details of their operation are provided later. Solenoids104 and 106 can be used to open and close pathways for pressurized airand fluid on conduit 14. Solenoid 104 can be normally closed to blockand seal conduit 52 to compressor 50 when it is not operating. Solenoid106 can operate in concert with solenoid 104 for an optional clean outmode for system 10, as will be discussed later. A timing relay 118 canbe used to control a cleanout relay 119, which in turn can controlactuation of cleanout solenoid 106. Timing relay 118 essentially canoperate for a fixed period of time (e.g. 30 seconds) to run an automaticcleanout mode if instructed by controller 80.

11. Integrated System/Housing

FIGS. 6A-C illustrate one way some of the components of device 10 can beintegrated into a relatively small housing 200 (e.g., sheet metal) thatcan be installed on a vehicle or wherever else could be useful. Amounting plate 202 provides a surface that can be bolted or otherwisemounted on vehicle or wall or other surface. A header 90 could. includea receiver 30 for one or more bottles 20. In FIGS. 6A-C, two APPLI-PRO™bottles 20A and B can be screwed into operative position to receivers30A and B respectively. This provides easy access for the operator toconnect or remove either bottle 20A or B to device 10. As indicated atFIG. 6C, a door 201 in housing 200 allows access to pump 40, compressor50, and other components (e.g. solenoids, valves, tubing), . A wall 208can separate and essentially seal off compressor 50 from pump 40. Acircuit board could contain much of the circuitry indicated at FIG. 5,but would usually be mounted in an enclosure in the operator cab.Electrical connections would communicate operating instructions to pump40 and compressor 50 in housing 200. Conduit 14 and conduit 52 are notshown specifically in FIG. 6C, but would form fluid pathways frombottles 20A and B and compressor 50, respectively, to a fluid outlet 210from housing 200. The branch of conduit 14 to nozzle 12 (not shown inFIG. 6C) would operatively connect to fluid outlet 210.

As indicated in FIG. 2, controller 80 and other components could belocated remotely from housing 200 (e.g. in the operator cab of thevehicle). Conventional electrical communications (wire or wireless)could communicate instructions or information from the in-cab componentsto housing 200 to, in turn, instruct operation of solenoids 104 and 106,pump 40 and compressor 50.

FIGS. 6B and C show an optional pressure gauge 204 could be operativelyconnected to conduit 14 to monitor pressure during operation of system10. It should be noted it could be placed in any of a variety ofpositions. It could communicate with controller 80 to provide real-timeinformation to the operator in the cab. As an alternative, a digitalreadout on the controller could also give a pressure indication.

As can be seen in FIGS. 6A-C, most of system 10 can be integrated into arelatively compact single housing 200 that would be relatively easy tomount, even in sometimes cramped interior spaces of a vehicle orimplement. With relatively few connections, housing 200 can be incommunication with controller 80 and nozzle 12. This provides easy andnon-cumbersome installation, set-up, and maintenance. It also allowsremoval of system 10 and installation into another vehicle or place withsubstantial ease.

As can be appreciated, the components of system 10 could bepredominantly modular in nature, and thus present efficiencies inmanufacturing, maintenance, repair, and replacement.

D. Operation

In operation, system 10 can function as follows. There would bepreliminary steps such as below.

Bottle 20 would be filled with a mixture of water and inoculantaccording to a priori knowledge or recommended instructions for a givenapplication rate, crop and/or inoculant. The operator could, by hand,uncap bottle 20, and connect it to receiver 30.

Prior testing is used to program controller 80 such that manual selector70, or in this example, user control interface 110, would provide theoperator with the ability to enter any of a range of application ratesprogrammed into controller 80.

Nozzle 12 would be pre-positioned adjacent the flow path of forage 8. Ofcourse, the spray pattern of nozzle 12 can be tested, its spray patternestablished, and the position of nozzle 12 adjusted to get desiredcoverage relative moving forage 8 (FIG. 2) without wastage orover-spraying.

Some design is needed as far as placement of the components internallyof the vehicle. In one embodiment, bottle 20, receiver 30, pump 40,compressor 50, and the majority of conduit 14 could be enclosed within ahousing or framework like housing 200 of FIGS. 6A-C and inserted nearthe desired position of nozzle 12 in a location that will not come intoconflict with other operating components of the vehicle. Alternatively,any or all of the components can be mounted in desirable positions andoperably interconnected.

By referring to the electrical schematic of FIG. 5, electrical power tovarious components could be obtained by a connection to the vehicle'sbattery power system (usually 12 VDC) or otherwise converted to 12 VDCso that system 10 does not need a power source external of the vehicle.

The advantages of system 10 would therefore include a relativelysmall-sized, interchangeable, removable bottle 20 that could be handledby hand, in combination with a fluid pump and air compressor to providean aerated fluid flow to produce a mist of even consistency andapplication; all without having to use an atomization or atomizerstructure or method, which can be expensive and could be detrimental tobiological cells or life forms.

Controller 80, or some other intelligent device, can be used to not onlyinstruct operation of components like pump 40, but also coordinateoperation of the system and provide intelligence regarding settings oroperation for the various components for a given mixture, crop, andthroughput of crop. For example, sensors like a voltmeter, pressuregauge, or others could send information to controller 80 which could beused by its programming to control system 10.

The general rules for operation are as follows:

-   -   a. Eliminating atomization to reduce shearing action or trauma        that could damage bioactive or chemical substances.    -   b. Maintaining a closed system between the mixture in bottle 20        and nozzle 12 deters any drying action that could be detrimental        to biologically active or chemical substances.    -   c. Elimination of an atomizer or certain types of pump, and        introduction of pressurized air, deters high temperatures for        the mixture, which also could be detrimental to a biologically        active or chemical substance.    -   d. Rate and consistency of spray can be relatively precisely        controlled by operation of pump motor 42 and amount of        pressurized air 50.    -   e. Size, weight, and cost of system 10 are relatively small        compared to existing typical systems. Elimination of a large        multi-gallon tank eliminates a lot of weight and size issues.        Additionally, elimination of a hundred gallon tank or water        container eliminates a safety issue because such a tank adds a        significant amount of weight to a vehicle and could create        tipping problems.    -   f. The rather compact size of the system allows it to be placed        advantageously relative to the crop to be sprayed, including        internally of vehicles. This can eliminate the need for applying        the substance to the crop in external positions of the vehicle,        which then brings into play environmental factors such as wind        that could affect the mist. Additionally, utilizing the        pressurized air from compressor 50 allows the system to be        placed in environments that pull a vacuum. The mist will still        work effectively.

One specific description of components and operation according to oneexemplary embodiment is as follows. The controller 80 can output motorfunctions to a peristaltic pump 40, air compressor 50, and solenoidvalves in an application system for crop inoculant, such as has beenpreviously described.

-   A. Physical specifications:    -   1. Peristaltic pump 40: 12 volt DC gear motor 42 runs between        300 and 1800 rpm and draws a maximum of 3 amps. The pump will be        located 8 feet away from the controller 80. The distance of the        pump from the controller 80 may vary in distance. The controller        80 will regulate motor speed to control output.    -   2. Compressor 50: The controller 80 will turn the compressor on        and off only. 12-volt power at 15 amps will be supplied to the        compressor externally.

Optionally, a pressure control device or PCD (available commercially—seecomponent 56 in dashed lines in FIG. 2) could be used to adjust theamount of air pressure from compressor 50 to conduit 14. PCD 56 could becontrolled by controller 80 if desired, through a solenoid or otherelectronically-controlled device. Alternatively, it could be manuallyoperated or perhaps even by automatic adjustment via sensors.

-   -   3. Solenoid valves: There will be two solenoid valves to control        the direction of airflow. Control to these valves will be to        energize a 12-volt coil of valve control solenoids 104 or 106,        opening up a normally closed valve that will require 0.2 amps to        maintain the open position for an interval (e.g. 30 sec.). Power        to the solenoids 104 and 106 will be activated by the controller        80 for an interval of 30 seconds.    -   4. Display of control user interface (see FIG. 7): The        controller 80 will have a display 112 that shows motor speed        setting and the accumulated revolutions of the motor based on a        calculation of motor speed and duration of operation. These        values will be displayed as a function of harvesting units,        which is derived by simple math from the motor speed setting. A        one line 4-character display with LCD numbers at 0.5-inch        character height could be used, or other styles and        configurations of display. If possible without significant cost,        the display will also include a reading to give an indication of        line pressure. The purpose of this pressure display is to        provide the operator with a warning of possible plugging.        Therefore absolute accuracy in pressure reading is not required.    -   5. Enclosure 200: The unit will be installed in tractor cabs        requiring dust and moisture resistance similar to a Harvest Tec        477 acre meter (available from Harvest Tec, Hudson, Wis.). The        vibration requirement for the controller 80 should be good        enough to provide years of dependable service without vibration        induced breakdowns. Consideration should be made for conditions        under which the unit will be operated.    -   6. Power supply: The controller 80 will be powered off the        tractor's 12-volt power system that will deliver between 11 and        15 volts of DC power.    -   7. Cabling: Power input will be plugged into the bottom of the        box. Motor output and compressor output will be plugged into the        bottom of the box. Amp connectors will be used on both        connections. Connections between the pump housing and the        control box should be some type of couplers, screw on, or quick        disconnect which will enable the operator to interchange units        easily and fairly quickly.    -   8. Switches: A membrane face overlay with four membrane switches        113, 114, 115, and 116 (see FIG. 7) will be over-laid on the box        face.    -   9. Start/stop: Operation will be controlled by either a        box-mounted switch 115 or from a remote signal that activates        with 12-volt positive input.

-   B. Control operation (refer to FIGS. 2, 5, and 7):    -   1. Power up and start non-operating part of “on” cycle. A push        of “on/off” button 114 is essentially the “power” button for        system 10 and enables the supply of electrical power to        controller 80. This initiates a what will be called the        non-operating part of an “on” mode or cycle, where the display        becomes lighted and the “set rate” and “read/reset tons”        functions (correlated with buttons 113 and 116 on control        interface 110) are enabled.    -   2. Clean functions. There are times when it is desirable to        clean up conduit 14 and nozzle 12. In this embodiment, when        power button 114 is pushed off, controller 80 will automatically        initiate an automatic clean mode or cycle. It does this by        activating the two solenoids 104/106 and the compressor 50 for a        pre-determined, pre-set interval (e.g. 30 seconds). The        solenoids set valves in the fluid paths between compressor 50,        nozzle 12, and bottle 20 so that the following can occur.        Pressurized air from compressor 50 is allowed to travel to        nozzle 12. This will remove any fluid from that part of the        fluid pathway and clean out nozzle 12. Controller 80 would also        instruct pump 40 to operate, but in a reverse flow mode. This        would move any fluid in line 14 back towards or into bottle 20.        If the power is re-activated during the 30-second automatic        clean period, the 30-second interval will be completed before        normal operation is resumed. During the 30-second interval,        display 112 will flash “clean”. Also, anytime during the “on”        cycle, if on/off button 114 is pushed and held for 3 seconds,        controller 80 will activate a manual clean mode or cycle.        Controller 80 will supply power to solenoids 104/106 as        described immediately above and run the compressor 50 until        on/off button 114 is pushed again. Display 112 will flash,        “clean” during this mode. This allows the operator to run a        clean out by manual selection. As can be appreciated, controller        80 could be programmed to automatically run a clean mode at any        time.    -   3. Set rate function. After power up and enablement of it, the        “Set Rate” function will be activated in what will be called the        non-operating “on” mode, meaning the spraying function of system        10 is not allowed. The operator can then set a desired        application rate for the mixture. Pushing “set rate” button 113        will show the rate set on display 112. Holding “set rate” button        113 in will scroll display 112 between the range of values 10        and 400; in 2 unit increments between the sub-range 10 and 100,        and in 10 unit increments between the sub-range 100 and 400.        When the unit gets to value 400, it will roll over to 10.        Scrolling will be at an accelerated rate of 4 to 10 characters        per second during the hold down interval. When button 113 is        released, the motor speed for pump motor 42 will be set. This        speed setting will be accomplished by modulating the ground on        the power to the gear motor 42. There can be a look-up table        with values of voltage versus pump output. The operator thus        selects an application setting via control interface 110        appropriate with a desired rate of application for the given        inoculant/water mixture in bottle 20 and the forage speed and        volume.    -   4. Tons treated function. After power up and enablement of the        “Tons treated” function, pushing “tons treated” button 116 will        cause controller 80 to read the theoretical revolutions of the        gear motor for the set “rate value” off of the look-up table.        This value will be multiplied by the minutes run and converted        to a tons value for display 112. This “tons treated” function        can assist the operator, if needed. Resetting the value is        accomplished by pushing and holding button 116.    -   5. Start operating part of “on” cycle. When the vehicle begins        harvesting the forage, the operator would turn on the spraying        function of system 10 via switch 115. After the non-operating        part of the “on” cycle is completed, with the operator having        set the application rate, a push of “start/stop” button 115 will        begin the operating part of the “on” cycle, where the mixture is        sprayed. Controller 80 energizes both pump 40 and compressor 50,        and sets solenoids 104 and 106 so their respective valves allow        fluid from bottle 20 and pressurized air from compressor 50 to        mix and move to and out of nozzle 12. Pump 40 would pull mixture        from bottle 20 at the desired rate. Compressor 50 would aerate        the mixture at a preset amount. Controller 80 would send a        signal via cable 82 to pump motor 42 of pump 40 to operate at a        speed proportional to that selected. At the same time,        compressor 50 could be instructed by controller 80 to begin        operation. The aerated mixture would then be misted out of        nozzle 12 as forage 8 passes by the location of nozzle 12 to        distribute the selected amount of mixture on forage. In one        example, 10 milliliters/ton of forage additive would be applied.        In one embodiment, capacity of system 10 is 400 to 600 tons per        hour (tph) top end. Typically, 150-300 tph would be treated.        During the “run” mode of this operating part of the “on” cycle,        display 112 will show the accumulated tons treated. The operator        can stop spraying by pushing button 115. During this “stop”        state or mode, display 112 will read “stop”. The operator will        thus have a visual indication of state of spray. A remote signal        to 12 volt positive will perform the same function as the        “start/stop” key 115. As previously mentioned, the system could        be programmed to start or stop automatically if so desired (e.g.        by response to dropping of harvesting head).

This air assisted arrangement allows for precise, efficient, economicalcontrol of rate and distribution of the mixture with control overtemperature, shearing, and drying.

E. Options And Alternatives

The foregoing detailed description is of but one form the invention cantake. Variations obvious to one skilled in the art are included in theinvention, which is solely described by the claims herein.

For example, variations in each of the components are possible.Dimensions, specifications, and characteristics can vary according todesire and need.

As previously stated, the invention can be used for spraying forageinoculant on harvested forage, but could also be used to apply othertypes of mixtures that include biologically active or chemicalsubstances on other harvested agricultural crops, or other products orthings. Or the invention can be used to apply mixtures before a crop isharvested. For example, it could be applied to a swath of mowed foragebefore it is picked up and chopped. It could also be used to apply amixture to a swath or row(s) of growing plants.

Some examples of other substances for application to target productinclude, but are not limited to, insecticide, herbicide, fertilizer,paint, cleaning fluids, coatings, freeze-drying. Others are possible.

An example of a different use of system 10 from that installed on aharvesting implement is shown in simplified form at FIG. 8. A system 10(such as shown in FIG. 1 or 2) could be mounted on a frame 120 that hasconnections to the three arms 122, 124L, and 124R of a three-point hitchof tractor 126. System 10 would include a container 20, a pump 40, acompressor 50 and a controller 80 like previously described. A hood 128is also mounted on frame 120 with at least one (here there are two)nozzle 12 positioned so that the outlet of the nozzle(s) are inside hood128. Appropriate wiring and fluid conduits connect the variouscomponents in a similar manner as discussed previously. The arrangementof FIG. 8 is configured so that it can be moved by tractor 126 over aswath of mown hay or silage of about three feet wide and apply a mixturefrom container 20 to the swath in a manner such as has been previouslydescribed. Hood 128 helps contain the mixture as it moves out of nozzles12L and 12R, and helps prevent wind or debris from affecting theapplication. System 10 can be adjusted up or down relative to the swathby conventional operation of the three-point hitch.

Analogous structure could be used to apply mixtures to cut or growingcrops, but not yet harvested (“pre-harvested”). For example, the system10 could be mounted to the front of a vehicle (e.g. by a frame orconnection to the front of a tractor or other implement). It could beoperated to apply a substance on crop, whether growing in the field orcut and laying in the field, as the vehicle drives by or over it.

As previously stated, harvesting equipment exist that are self-propelledand direct harvested crop into an on-board bin, a wagon pulled by theharvester, or a wagon pulled along-side the harvester by separatetractor. There are also harvester implements that are pulled behind atractor and direct harvested crop into a following wagon (either hookedto the implement or moving with the implement). There is also a type ofharvester equipment sometimes called a loader wagon, which is pulledbehind a tractor but combines a harvester with a wagon. System 10 couldbe placed in the entrance to the loader wagon or its outlet, and be usedto apply substances to silage as it enters the wagon or as it leaves thewagon for placement in a silo or other storage location. The inventioncan be applied to any of these versions of harvesting equipment.

A system 10 could also be operably positioned and used on other types ofvehicles, equipment, or implements.

FIG. 3 shows an optional feature that could be utilized. Two receivers30 (reference numerals 30A and 30B of FIG. 3) could be mounted in acommon manifold 90. Channel 92A would be in fluid communication withreceiver 30A and channel 92B with receiver 30B. A valve 94 could selectbetween channels 92 A and B. Manifold outlet 96 could be in fluidcommunication with end 18 of conduit 14.

With this embodiment of FIG. 3, two bottles 20 could be available forsystem 10 depending upon position of valve 94. This could provide doublethe amount of mixture. First bottle 20A could be exhausted, then bottle20B. Alternatively, different mixtures could be contained, and selectedfrom.

A still further option could be that bottle 20B contain just water.During spraying of a mixture containing a biologically active orchemical substance from bottle 20A, valve 94 would be in a position toblock channel 92B to container 20B. At some point, selected by the user,valve 94 could be selected to block channel 92A and pump 42 operated topull clean water from container 20B to clean out conduit 14 and nozzle12. Once the system is clean, valve 94 could be turned back to openchannel 92A and block channel 92B.

FIG. 4 shows another optional alternative embodiment. End 16 of conduit14 could be in fluid communication with a plurality of nozzles 12. Asshown in FIG. 4 for illustration purposes only, two nozzles 12A and 12Bare shown in parallel from end 16 of conduit 14. They both could bedirected towards harvested agricultural crop coming through the sameconveyor. Alternatively, they could be directed to different streams ofagricultural crop in two conveyors. As indicated in FIG. 4, a typicalwidth of mist might be 5 to 15 centimeters wide at the harvested crop.However, variations in width and mist patterns are possible.

As can be appreciated, the system could have one, or more, nozzles 12depending on design and need. Still further alternatively, a system 10could have multiple bottles 20, each with its own pump 40 and compressor50 and nozzle 12, to concurrently have a plurality of systems 10operating. They could be under the operation of one controller 80.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary electrical schematic such as might beused with system 10 of FIG. 2. Alternatives are possible. For example,the circuit of FIG. 5 could be implemented into a circuit board orprinted circuit board. In mass production, this could materially reducecost of the overall system 10.

An additional option could be a sensor indicating when bottle 20 is nearor at empty. It could be some sort of optical detector, pressuredetector, or some sort of float in bottle 20. Such alarms are availablecommercially.

Manual control 70 could have a plurality of settings 74 correlated todifferent “tons per hour” application rates. Control 70 could be a clickdial with indicia placed at settings 74 so that the operator could readthe “tons per hour” settings and turn the dial by click stop to adesired setting. There could be a digital voltage readout.

Other additional features are possible.

As previously indicated, instead of system 10 being stationary relativeto moving agricultural crop, system 10 could be moved past stationaryagricultural crop. Alternatively, spraying system 10 could be inmovement as the agricultural crop is also moving.

Examples of different environments, applications, and configurations areset forth in Ser. No. 10/140,596. Other examples are possible.

A different container or bottle from bottle 20 could be used.

It can be seen that the invention meets at least all its statedobjectives. It provides for controlled rate and distribution withcontrol of temperature, shearing, and drying. Typically a +/−5%application rate variance or tolerance is acceptable. Utilizingcomponents of the type described above, system 10 could be made to costunder $1000, and likely well-under that amount. This is significantlyless than the atomizing systems discussed earlier. It allows highcapacity (e.g. hundreds of tons per hour), precise control of smallamounts of bioactive or chemical substances, but with even, controlledrate and distribution.

1. A method for applying a relatively small volume of biologicallyactive or chemical substance to a relatively large volume of anagricultural crop comprising: (a) creating a stream of pressurized air;(b) metering a mixture of the biologically active or chemical substanceand water into the stream of pressurized air; (c) applying the aeratedmixture to an agricultural crop.
 2. The method of claim 1 wherein theagricultural crop comprises one of forage, grain, hay, or feed.
 3. Theapparatus of claim 1 wherein the crop is harvested crop.
 4. Theapparatus of claim 1 wherein the crop is crop cut and lying in field ina swath.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the crop is growing crop.6. The method of claim 1 wherein the biologically active or chemicalsubstance comprises at least in part living organisms.
 7. The method ofclaim 6 wherein the living organisms comprise bacteria.
 8. The method ofclaim 7 wherein the bacteria comprises a forage inoculant.
 9. The methodof claim 1 wherein the mixture is contained in a removable handcarryable container.
 10. The method of claim 1 wherein the applicationis not by atomizing.
 11. The method of claim 1 further comprisingcontrolling the rate of application with a microprocessor.
 12. Themethod of claim 1 further comprising controlling the pumping rate andpressurized air level.
 13. The method of claim 1 wherein the applicationis to a moving agricultural crop.
 14. The method of claim 1 wherein theapplication is moving relative to the stationary crop.
 15. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the crop and/or application are moving.
 16. The methodof claim 1 wherein the pressured air can be used to aerate the mixturein a conduit and clean the mixture from the conduit after application ofthe mixture.
 17. A system for applying a biologically active or chemicalsubstance to a relatively large volume of crop comprising: a. a nozzlewith a spray orifice positionable near the agricultural crop, the nozzlebeing positioned at one end of a fluid conduit; b. a receiver connectedat an opposite end of the fluid conduit to receive a container of amixture of water and biologically active or chemical substance; c. aelectrically powered pump operatively connected to deliver the mixtureto the conduit at a rate proportional to operation of the pump; d. apressurized air source in fluid communication with the conduit to aeratethe mixture; e. a voltage sensor connected to the pump; f. a control toalter voltage of the pump.
 18. The system of claim 17 wherein arelatively high volume of air and a relatively low volume ofbiologically active or chemical substance is moved through the conduit.19. The system of claim 17 wherein the container is a hand-sized bottlewith a sealable opening that can be removably connected to the receiver.20. The system of claim 17 wherein the aeration is adjusted to mixpressurized air with the mixture and eject the aerated mixture in aneven uniform manner.
 21. The system of claim 17 wherein the mixture isejected as a mist.
 22. A process where air from a pump, compressor orsupply of compressed air is delivered to a spray orifice and, betweenthe air supply and the spray orifice, a metering device introduces anadditive to the flow of air at a distance from the orifice to allow formixing of the additive and the air so that the additive is evenlydistributed on a crop being processed by a crop treating, crop cutting,forage harvesting or crop baling implement.
 23. A process as in claim 22where the metering device used is a positive displacement pump.
 24. Aprocess as in claim 22 where the additive is an aid in the preservationof the crop in storage.
 25. A process as in claim 22 where the additiveis applied to the crop at a ratio between 0.001% and 0.2% of the cropbeing treated.
 26. A crop treated by the process comprising: a. creatinga stream of pressurized air; b. metering a mixture of the biologicallyactive or chemical substance and water into the stream of pressurizedair; c. applying the aerated mixture to an agricultural crop.
 27. Thecrop of claim 26 wherein the crop is harvested crop.
 28. The crop ofclaim 26 wherein the crop is crop cut and lying in field in a swath. 29.The crop of claim 26 wherein the crop is growing crop.
 30. The crop ofclaim 26 wherein the aerated mixture is applied through a spray orifice.31. The crop of claim 26 wherein the mixture is a relatively smallvolume and the pressurized air is relatively high pressure.
 32. Ananimal feed made by the process comprising: a. creating a stream ofpressurized air; b. metering a mixture of the biologically active orchemical substance and water into the stream of pressurized air; c.applying the aerated mixture to an agricultural crop adapted for use asanimal feed.
 33. The crop of claim 32 wherein the crop is harvestedcrop.
 34. The crop of claim 32 wherein the crop is crop cut and lying infield in a swath.
 35. The crop of claim 32 wherein the crop is growingcrop.
 36. The crop of claim 32 wherein the aerated mixture is appliedthrough a spray orifice.
 37. The crop of claim 32 wherein the mixture isa relatively small volume and the pressurized air is relatively highpressure.